Looking at the linebackers ends as we examine the Patriots’ roster ahead of training camp:
Roster: Trevor Bates, Brooks Ellis, Jonathan Freeny, David Harris, Dont’a Hightower, Harvey Langi, Shea McClellin, Rob Ninkovich, Elandon Roberts, Kyle Van Noy
Skinny: If you’re looking for a weak point on this defense, this is it. Hightower is one of the best players in the league at his position, but his injury concerns are real. This isn’t the same defense when he’s off the field and his leadership is missing. One of the main takeaways from Super Bowl LI was just how much speedy Falcons running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman exposed the Pats linebackers in space.